When your schedule is overwhelming, stop and bless someone’s day.

I took time to realistically look at my calendar and my work schedule this week; they will never match up. I thought of all the correspondence I was going to write; all the cabinets I wanted to clean; all the little extras I planned to do for those in my care.

I wondered about you. Each of you hold a special place in my heart. I know a few of you quite well; others slightly; still others only through seeing your name on my list and praying for you and your family. I wonder how your summer has gone and if, in even the least of ways, my notes have truly offered you help and hope.

You can stop and regroup; even a few moments can change your day.

This morning I woke up to the sound of refreshing rain on the roof. I walked outside on the porch, drank in that cool, clean air, and felt as though I could conquer the world (for a brief moment). I’m thankful for those times. I wish fresh air and sunshine for your busy days.

Later I stood in the hot sun and greeted a busload of young church campers as they tumbled out and gathered their belongings. Though clearly tired and ready for home, many made time to give me bear hugs and smiles and tell me about their new friends and what they had learned at camp. Most will be in school soon and back to a rigid schedule of study and play. Summer has somehow seemed all too short. I wish for you hugs from wee ones; they warm our hearts.

If you bake, garden, or cook a good casserole, find someone to share it with today.

I thought of you today as we enjoyed our lunch. Gardening friends shared their wares with us; we had a banquet from four different families! We had ripe red sliced tomatoes and green beans and new potatoes from Dorothy; cucumbers and onions from Barbara; corn on the cob from a Mennonite neighbor; and cold, ripe cantaloupe from Eunice for dessert. I wanted to invite you over to share our bounty!

I know many of you are busier than I, struggling to make it through the day. You can only hope for someone to drop you off some groceries or take time to hug a bit.

It’s unusual for us to have this bounty from neighbors; just a good gardening year here, I guess. It certainly isn’t because we “look hungry” that they brought food by for us! I do appreciate it; every bite.

What I appreciate most is that someone thought of us in that way. Now, I can’t come by your house today and deliver you some goodies or hold your hand or hug your neck.

Here are a few things I can do for you today.

1. I can encourage from an understanding heart. I have been there, in the trenches and in the good times. I know firsthand that every caregiver, parent, or child needs hope, love and understanding.

2. I can pray for you. I believe that the love of God knows no boundaries. I believe He cares for us in ways we cannot understand. I believe He wants to comfort you and strengthen you and those you love.

3. I can listen to you. I am a good listener. Sometimes, just talking helps. I want to encourage you, if nothing else, to set aside a few minutes each day to journal your thoughts and your feelings. Be honest with them. And, please let me know when a column meets your need. Let me know how I can be a better encourager for you personally.

Well, lots of chattering today. Sometimes it’s good to just sit down and talk to an old friend. I really do care about you; I hope you know Jesus cares.

Looking forward to hearing from you soon.

Next week I will share about my favorite website and some helpful hints. Invite others to join our family by signing up for the mailing list at the colorful box in the upper right hand corner of the page.